Franz Joseph Koci

1927 - 2020

 

   Leaving us with heavy hearts we sadly announce the passing of Franz Joseph Koci of Blairmore, Alberta. He succumbed to illness on October 14, 2020 while receiving care at the Crowsnest Pass Health Centre in Blairmore, Alberta.

   Franz was born in Duisburg, Germany in 1927 and immigrated to Canada in 1951. Shortly after his arrival he met the love of his life, Elizabeth Fujiko Hayashi and married her.

   Franz Koci was a well-known professional artist within the Canadian Art scene for over 60 years. Although he was known for his symbolic sculptures of the crows located in the Crowsnest Pass; he was also recognized for the creation and construction of a 30 ft. high Canada goose in Wawa, Ontario, a commemorative moment for the opening of the Trans-Canada Highway. His artistic diversity encompassed several styles, techniques and mediums including oil paintings, sculptures, wood and stone carvings, woodcuts, serigraphs and murals. Franz’s work has been recognized by the Alberta Art Foundation and the Crowsnest Pass Allied Arts Association. He designed logos for the Alberta Summer Games and rendered drawings for the Frank Slide interpretive centre.

   He received literary distinction, accolades, personal interviews and was featured in numerous Canadian publications including trade and government journals and newspapers. His work had collectors throughout Canada, the United States, Europe and Japan. 

   Franz was founder of the Pass Promoter newspaper with circulation throughout the Crowsnest Pass and surrounding areas.  He was active for four years with the Promoter gathering sponsors and ads in the Pincher Creek and Crowsnest community.

   Franz Joseph Koci was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Selma Koci; his wife, Elizabeth Koci; two stepsons and two grandchildren. He is survived by his brother, Gunther Koci; stepdaughters, Ruth Plante ( Walter), Faye Espeseth (Wayne), Carol Hendrickson (Lloyd), Patricia Taylor; stepson, Wayne Hayashi; several grandchildren; great grandchildren; great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

   At Franz’s request, there will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted in memory of Franz Joseph Koci by the York Creek Lodge (PO Box 1050, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0), or by the CNP Allied Arts Association (PO Box 1469, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555